Staff photos

Four companies have been selected to pitch at this year’s Youngstown Business Incubator Shark Tank fundraising event Oct. 23 at Mr. Anthony’s Banquet Center in Boardman.

Taking the stage are:

• Nivalon Medical — Developing the first patient-specific, motion-preserving spinal implant, Nivalon aims to restore spinal motion, reduce complications and shape the future of personalized medicine.

• LeapFast Manufacturing Inc. — Reimagining how advanced manufacturing innovations reach the real world, LeapFast is advancing aluminum fabrication with plans to expand into other metals, serving aerospace, defense, transportation, energy and heavy industry.

• Gizmo and Trinket — With The Oracle smart dice tray, Gizmo and Trinket is pioneering hybrid gaming that bridges the physical and digital worlds, letting players use their favorite dice to play online while preserving the magic of tabletop play.

• Rapt — Building a first-of-its-kind AI-powered Bible study app, Rapt generates fully customized devotionals and guides on demand, providing millions of Christians new ways to deepen engagement with their faith.

Each of the four selected companies will receive a minimum of $5,000 for making it to the stage, with the possibility of winning up to $10,000. Up to $15,000 in prizes will be awarded through sponsorship support.

This year’s celebrity Shark judges are:

• Don Thomas, managing partner at Platz Realty.

• Rob Komara, co-owner of Komara Jewelers.

• Wayne Mackey, founder and CEO of Statespace.

• RT Vernal, RT Vernal Paving and Excavating.

• Amy Abruzere, owner of Grey Boutique.

“This event shines a spotlight on the future of entrepreneurship in our region,” said Luke Politsky, director of development at YBI. “Each company reflects the innovation, resilience and creativity that YBI is proud to support.”

More information, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at ybi.org/sharktank.